A new strategic partnership between Lakehead University and SpacesShared aims to help solve the growing challenge of affordable student housing in Thunder Bay.
An innovative online platform, SpacesShared, connects students in need of safe and affordable housing with older adults and individuals in the community who have a spare room to rent, fostering connections and supporting the older adult population in the region. Using a sophisticated algorithm, the virtual service matches students and landlords based on preference, location, and personality.
This new home-sharing solution will help address the growing challenge of lack of available and affordable student housing in Thunder Bay, in line with what communities are experiencing nationwide. At the same time as increasing supply, SpacesShared encourages intergenerational engagement. Lakehead is offering this unique living experience to students in Thunder Bay and Orillia.
"We are committed to ensuring that students have access to reliable, appropriate and affordable housing solutions here in Thunder Bay," said Shannon Foster, Director of Residence Services at Lakehead University. "Offering home sharing as a housing option for students removes the worry and stress associated with finding a place to live and ensures that our students can focus on their education and the excitement of their time at university."
SpacesShared also makes aging in place a reality for older adults by providing additional income and companionship. Hosts can also offer a Helpers Discount, which means students can help with a set list of SpacesShared-approved chores around the house and, in exchange for each hour of weekly assistance, their monthly rent is reduced by five per cent.
"We are thrilled to bring SpacesShared to Lakehead's campuses in Thunder Bay and Orillia," said Rylan Kinnon, SpacesShared CEO. "This expansion reflects our commitment to supporting students with affordable housing while engaging local residents in a way that strengthens community ties. We are confident this collaboration will create new opportunities for connection and growth, benefitting both students and the broader community of Thunder Bay."
Safety is also a priority for SpacesShared. Both students and hosts must verify their identity, undergo background checks, and follow strict guidelines to ensure a safe and supportive living environment.
Lakehead University is committed to increasing access to student housing in a multitude of ways, including adding 47 new on-campus residence rooms and 65 new beds in Thunder Bay this year, and reintroducing a double occupancy option at a lower price point with the added social benefit of having a built-in roommate.
Do you or someone you know have a space to share? Learn more about home-sharing, or register for a free account as a host or a student, at www.spacesshared.ca.
